By TCR Staff
The 2026 General Board Meeting convened from June 22-24, 2026, at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando, Florida, with pre-general board activities. The Social Action Forum, presided over by Bishop Francine A. Brookins, prepared the foundation of this year’s focus by providing information about the Freedom Summer Institute and supported it by presenting topics such as the importance of following the money trail when deciding which candidate to sponsor and elect, and diving into the 1964 legacy of Freedom Summer’s historical success to secure the same victories for our future. With 70 members in attendance, including notable pillars Bishop Sylvester S. Beaman, Retired Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, General Officer Dr. John Thomas, and General Officer Burgess, this meeting got off to an impactful start.
General Board Breakfasts
In the absence of President Ammie L. Davis, Rev. Dr. Susan H. Buckson-Ephraim presided over the Turner Theological Seminary breakfast held June 23, 2026. U.S. Congresswoman Val Demmings served as the keynote speaker, challenging attendees to recognize that America stands divided between two visions – one innovative and forward-moving, the other rooted in a Jim Crow/MAGA mentality. She argued that a house divided cannot stand and tied true leadership to the willingness to listen to all voices. She called on the room to abandon old approaches in favor of bold, new action and closed by pressing each person to decide which America they were willing to use their talents for and which one they were ready to fight for, framing unity as the only path to greatness. Strong recognition and praise were given to Dr. Ammie L. Davis, Turner’s President and CEO, for her leadership in preserving the seminary’s history and academic structure, despite her being unable to attend due to an accreditation meeting in Chicago. The breakfast was encouraging and well-attended, highlighting the seminary’s growth.
The Payne Theological Seminary and Friends Breakfast took place concurrently with Judge Derek Anderson serving as Master of Ceremonies. Bishop Stafford J. Wicker, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, opened with reflections on his own calling to AME ministry and pride in being a Payne alum, then issued a call to action for renewed collaboration across the institution, urging revitalization of the Alumni Association. He also announced a new collaboration between Payne Theological Seminary and the Wilberforce Institute in South Africa, expanding the seminary’s global academic reach. Rev. Dr. Stanley Hurst delivered the keynote titled “A Telescopic Vision,” drawing from 1 Corinthians 2:9. He contrasted the microscope’s focus on what is near and small with the telescope’s ability to bring distant things into view. He encouraged attendees not to fear pursuing what they cannot yet see or hear, reminding them that something unspoken within their circles does not make it impossible in their lives. He also challenged the audience to guard against negativity, noting that people who lack imagination will tell others what they cannot become or achieve, and are therefore unable to see beyond someone else’s present problems, blockages, or storms.
Rev. Dr. Betty W. Holley, President of Payne Theological Seminary, closed the program with an address centered on collaboration, announcing a new dual master’s degree partnership with Edward Waters University, with an MOU set to be signed on June 26, 2026. She also spoke to her mandate to end the long-standing rivalry between Payne and Turner Theological Seminary, calling instead for shared academic goals to address the denomination’s clergy shortage. The breakfast carried a reunion-like atmosphere, with alums, faculty, and families gathering to hear messages centered on legacy, unity, and the future of African Methodist theological education.
Opening Plenary Session
The singing of cherished anthems of African Methodism welcomed Bishops, Supervisors, General Officers, Presiding Elders, Clergy, delegates, observers, and visitors from across the connection into the halls set aside and consecrated to host the opening session of the General Board Meeting. As the sounds faded and proceedings began, attention shifted to the stage illuminated in hues of purple and blue, where the leaders of our Zion gathered to begin the work of the Church.
Drawing from John 11:37-38, the preacher used the story of Lazarus’ death, highlighting the shortest verse in the Bible, “Jesus wept,” to emphasize that Jesus experienced the range of emotions we do today. There was a closeness between Jesus and Lazarus; as such, Jesus felt the grief of his friend’s death. “There ought to be some moments when we look at the state of the world, when we look at our brothers and sisters, tears ought to fall from our eyes. Not because this is where they are going to stay, but because this is where they are. For a moment, we ought to sit with the pain of our brothers and sisters, and for a moment we ought to understand what they are going through, their ups and downs, their joys and their sorrows.” This moment sparked sustained applause from the congregants as they expressed their collective agreement with this assertion.
The sermon spoke to the church that is expecting God to move as we navigate times of uncertainty, confusion, and outrage. The preacher centers us with a thought drawn from the word of God, reminding us that eyes have not seen, neither have ears heard, nor has it entered into the hearts of men or women what we shall become.
The Roll Call was conducted by Rev. Tyronda H. Burgess, who began by mentioning the four persons who have gone home to be with the Lord since the last general board meeting, including Bishop Reginald T. Jackson. Each name was called three times with assigned members of the General Board responding ‘deceased.’
The day commenced with the meeting of each commission and concluded with the investiture celebration of Bishop Marvic C. Zanders, II.
Investiture Worship Service
The investiture celebration of Bishop Marvin C. Zanders II, the 140th Elected and Consecrated Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and Chairman of the Council of Bishops, was marked by powerful worship, heartfelt tributes, and profound gratitude for God’s faithfulness. Framed by the celebratory themes “From A to Z” and “Z140,” the evening highlighted a ministry that has touched lives across the Church and beyond. From the opening moments of praise led by the Eleventh Episcopal District’s 200 Voice Mass Choir to the stirring ministry of Grammy-nominated Gospel Recording Artist Brian Courtney Wilson, the atmosphere was one of worship, reflection, celebration, and pride.
Among the most memorable moments was the presentation of Bishop Zanders’ life story by the Reverend Jimmy J. Thompson, who repeatedly emphasized “in Orlando,” transforming a biographical account into a testimony of divine providence. The congregation’s enthusiastic response underscored the significance of celebrating a leader whose journey from birth to calling and to episcopal leadership has remained deeply rooted in the city that shaped him.
Closing Plenary Session
During the closing plenary session held June 24, 2026, members of the General Board convened to hear each commission’s report. The reports began with Statistics and Finance reporting a difficult financial report. Leadership acknowledged how the fiscal strain of the denomination – declining revenue and limited liquidity – is creating pressure on day-to-day operations. The Board focused on accountability, directing the Finance Department and the Treasurer to return within 60 days with a comprehensive plan to improve cash flow and address outstanding debt. That plan is expected to cover revenue generation, expense reduction, and options for restructuring existing obligations. Even amid these challenges, commissions continued their regular work and presented recommendations to strengthen ministries across the Connection.
One of the most spirited discussions centered on the upcoming in-person General Board and General Conference gatherings scheduled for California. Several members recalled previous discussions and motions from 2021 and 2025 that encouraged virtual General Board meetings to reduce costs. Others argued that no binding action prohibited future in-person meetings. The debate intensified when members learned that contracts related to the Los Angeles gathering had already been signed and that financial commitments had been made. Some delegates advocated for canceling future in-person meetings to preserve resources amid the denomination’s financial challenges. Others stressed the importance of honoring contractual obligations, supporting host districts, and considering the legal and ethical consequences of cancellation. Following extensive discussion, a motion to cancel the remaining in-person General Board meetings failed to pass. However, the Board agreed that members should receive definitive documentation, including meeting minutes and detailed cost analyses, to ensure informed decision-making moving forward. The Board also requested an itemized cost breakdown for the 2027 General Board meeting to be held in Los Angeles, California. It directed the general secretary to distribute previous minutes related to discussions concerning virtual versus in-person meetings.
Upon conclusion of the discussion, Bishop James L. Davis asked each commission to stand quickly and provide only the recommendations to the General Board.
Commission Reports and Recommendations
Ministry and Recruitment
The Commission on Ministry and Recruitment, chaired by Bishop Jeffery B. Cooper, was presented by General Officer Garland F. Pierce, with Rev. Dr. Conitras M. Houston Dickens serving as secretary. The commission reviewed the plans for the State of Ministry in the AME Church Summit, as well as the survey results on ministry and recruitment in the AME Church. Additionally, the commission recommended that all members and attendees of the General Board meeting attend the State of the Ministry at the AME Church Summit after the General Board adjourns.
Global Development
Chaired by Bishop Wilfred J. Messiah, the Global Development Commission was recorded by Mrs. Ra’Veon Ward-Pace and supported by AME-SADA Executive Director Mr. Robert Nicolas. The Global Development Commission advocates that the General Board: (1) receive and adopt this report on the 2026-2030 Strategic Plan and the Maputo meeting of the GDC; (2) affirm the strategic direction of the Plan and its grounding in justice, community, and prophetic action; and (3) endorse the integrated, multi-sector model of implementation across the five priorities – food security, health, advocacy, financial resources, and human capital development. Furthermore, the General Board and its Commissions recognized the visa and travel challenges currently affecting members and delegates from several African nations and remain confident that the ongoing dialogue will yield positive results.
Health
Chaired by Bishop Gregory V. Eason, the Health Commission was supported by Secretary Chantal Alford and presented by Executive Directors Dr. Ouida Collins and Dr. Ann Mari Bentsi-Addison. The IHC has entered into partnerships with: the 18th Episcopal District, delivering $10,000 in aid to support the Global Development Council in Mozambique, through the Executive Board’s approved allocation; the Lancet Commission, contributing to research on building relationships in our communities in the areas of – health, faith, and trust; the Wesleyan Impact Partners, by donating $20,000 to assist with hurricane relief, matching Mt. Moriah AME Church in Tarpon Springs, FL; and the Alzheimer’s Association, particularly raising awareness within communities of color and participating with the caregiver support programming.
Publications
Bishop Francine A. Brookins chaired the Publications Commission, with Secretary Rev. Troy I. Thomas. General Officers Rev. Dr. Roderick D. Belin, Dr. John Thomas III, and Rev. Dr. Mark Kelly Tyler shared reports from the AME Sunday School Union, The Christian Recorder, and the AME Review, respectively. In remembrance of the walkout of St. George’s, the third Sunday in November has been declared AME Church Liberation Sunday. An advisory team will be assembled to research AI. Dr. Belin lifted up the release of his book “I Am AME: A Guide to Membership in the AME Church” noting that all copies were sold out. The commission approved the recommendation of Rev. Tashara S. Void to serve as the Assistant Editor of The Christian Recorder.
Chaplains
Under the leadership of Chair Bishop David R. Daniels and Secretary Chaplain Dr. G. Dianne Lewis, the Chaplains Commission has committed to creating an information-resource brochure and a database of mental health counselors, interventionists, and supportive clinicians for the Connectional AMEC. The commission has plans to offer intervention training for suicide awareness and prevention that addresses suicidal ideation, prevention, and postvention. There are also plans for disaster response training, including morale injury, that impact the livelihoods of AME connectional membership.
Global Witness and Ministry
Chaired by Bishop Silvester S. Beaman, the Global Witness and Ministry Commission was guided administratively by Secretary Raveon Ward-Pace. The Commission requests that the General Board consider adopting and implementing the Connectional Disaster Response Committee to establish a sustainable, connection-wide framework for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.
Women in Ministry (WIM)
Under the leadership of Chair Bishop Julius H. McAllister, Jr., the Women in Ministry Commission was presented by Rev. Dr. Joy Gallmon, with Secretary Rev. Sheriolyn Curry Hodge recording. The commission reviewed details for the upcoming 12th WIM Quadrennial in Charlotte, NC, July 20-23, 2026, and requested the full support of the AME Church.
Social Action
Chaired by Bishop Francine A. Brookins, the Social Action Commission was presented by Dr. Jacqueline DuPont-Walker, with Sister Saundra Lucas Fields serving as secretary. The commission resolved to develop a rapid response information distribution system quickly and ensure that every member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church will become an active part of AME Freedom Summer, utilizing the website: www.amefreedomsummer.com Leaders emphasized their determination to have every local congregation become a voter mobilization and education center, utilizing the “We’ll Do It For Ourselves” Root & Fruit index, to assist members in understanding the people on their ballots.
Christian Education
Led by Chair Bishop Harry L. Seawright, the Christian Education Commission was presented by General Officer Garland Pierce, with Dr. Alexis Gaston serving as secretary. The commission encouraged: all members interested in writing to join the Writer’s Guild; for clergy and lay persons on social media to connect to the Department’s Twitter, Threads, and Facebook; and to purchase the 2026 Advent/Christmas Devotional Meditation Guide and the 2027 Lenten Devotional Meditation Guide.
Seminaries, Universities, Colleges, & Schools
The Commission on Seminaries, Universities, Colleges, and Schools was chaired by Bishop Vernon R. Byrd Jr. and recorded by Secretary Charlene Boone. The commission discussed plans to create a standardized reporting template for all institutions, ensuring that pertinent information is reported consistently and equitably.
Church Growth and Development
Under the leadership of Bishop Erika Crawford, the Church Growth and Development Commission outlined several strategic initiatives during the June 2026 General Board Meeting. General Officer Marcellus A. Norris presented the commission’s goals, while Keith Colton Jr. served as secretary. Each district is to appoint a district director of evangelism and church growth. At the same time, the commission plans to support congregational vitality by helping local churches develop sustainable systems for discipleship, outreach, and ministry engagement.
Lay Commission
Chaired by Bishop Ronnie Elijah Brailsford Sr., the Lay Commission convened with Connectional President Mr. Matikane Abednego Makiti presenting and Keith E. Britton as Secretary. The Commission received updates on the 2027 Lay Biennial Convention planning and logistics, The Christian Recorder’s subscription drive, and the Connectional Lay Endowment Fund (CLEF). A progress overview was provided on the state of the Lay Organization, the planning and execution of the 39th Biennial Convention, and the 2024 Audit Report, which returned with no issues, confirming that the organization’s financial practices are sound. Bishop Brailsford encouraged the Lay Organization to continue its teaching and training. He stressed the importance of being highly involved politically at all levels as we move toward the midterm elections.
Economic Development
The Economic Development Commission, chaired by Bishop Paul J. M. Kawimbe, convened with Rev. Sheriolyn Curry Hodge as Secretary. Recommendations the exploring the feasibility of: providing property insurance for local churches, partnering with local churches that own farms to establish and expand produce distribution options, exploring revenue generating uses for vacant church properties, establishing a program to assist local churches with solar panel installation; and creating a database of revenue generating projects around the connection, matched with professional resources, to replicate successful projects in other areas.
As the meeting concluded, members acknowledged the significant financial challenges facing the denomination while emphasizing the church’s continued commitment to ministry and mission. Action items emerging from the session include implementing a financial stabilization strategy, supporting upcoming Connectional programs and conferences, advancing disaster-relief efforts, evaluating economic development opportunities, and continuing preparations for future gatherings. The meeting reflected both the realities of the church’s current financial circumstances and its determination to continue advancing ministry throughout the Connection.
Closing Worship Service
The 2026 General Board Meeting of the African Methodist Episcopal Church concluded with an evening worship service that celebrated God’s faithfulness, reflected the rich diversity of the Connection, and reminded those gathered that, while the business of the Church may conclude, its mission continues.
Preaching from 2 Kings 6:7–12 and 15–17, Bishop Seawright delivered a sermon entitled “One Plus One Equals Thousands.” Drawing from the familiar account of Elisha and his servant, he reminded the congregation that while life’s circumstances often appear overwhelming, God’s presence far exceeds every challenge.
